Old Age Saves a Child Predator from Jail

The Sensible Sentencing
Trust (SST) is outraged by a sentence handed down to
Geoffrey Trethewey, who was convicted of 42 counts of
indecent assault and sexual violation, attempted rape and
unlawful sexual connection against children under 12 between
1973 to 1991.

The retired podiatrist from Wellington and
the Wairarapa, received 12 months home detention for his
crimes. Trethewey is 89 years of age.“Seemingly old
age gets you a get-out-of-jail-free card,” Ruth Money, SST
spokesperson says. “Another soft sentence that sends a
terrible message to sex offenders around NZ.”

The judge
had noted that Trethewey’s health was now on the decline
and as too, his mental faculties. However, he had been fit
to face trial. Even though he pleaded guilty to all charges,
Trethewey shook his head and muttered “no” when the
victims’ statements were read in court.

“The fact that
he has taken no responsibility whatsoever for his actions
that have ruined the lives of many people, is horrific,”
Money adds. “What a complete waste of police time and
resources, not to mention the horror his victims have gone
through reliving this event only to have this man condemned
to life on the sofa.”

Detective Dave Bealing from
Wellington Police believes there could be more victims and
urges them to get in
contact.

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